Farm truck drivers are the transportation element of a farming operation.
They’re in charge of transporting meats and milk to processing plants as well as receiving product.
That means making sure it gets there in the right condition and completing the necessary delivery forms.
What responsibilities does a farm truck driver have?
- In addition to the previous section, truck drivers also have to:
- Routinely inspect their rigs before trips. Oil, gas, tires etc.
- Cleaning the trailer
- If a tarp is used, ensuring it’s fastened correctly and protecting the load
- Driving livestock to market
- Collecting samples for quality assurance
- Monitoring conditions of livestock on the trip
How to become a farm truck driver
Folks interested in becoming a truck driver can take high school courses like agriculture education, driver’s education, mathematics, and science.
As far as education and training go:
- Safety training
- Sampler and weigher license
- Tanker endorsement
- CDL Class A
- High school diploma
Work opportunities
Truck drivers can work for a variety of companies ranging from grain merchandising, chemical companies, co-ops, food and seed production.
Professional truck driving associations and organizations
A day in the life of a farm truck driver
A farm truck driver is responsible for transporting goods, equipment, and supplies to and from a farm. They play an important role in the agriculture industry, ensuring that farms have the resources they need to operate efficiently. Here is what a typical day in the life of a farm truck driver might look like.
Early Morning
The day for a farm truck driver typically begins early in the morning. They may start by inspecting their truck, ensuring that it is clean, well-maintained, and ready for the day ahead. This may involve checking the oil, fuel, and other fluids, as well as the tires, brakes, and other mechanical components.
The driver may then load the truck with the goods, equipment, or supplies needed for the day’s work. This may involve loading bags of seed, fertilizer, or animal feed, as well as tools, equipment, or livestock.
Mid-Morning
As the day progresses, the farm truck driver may travel to different locations, delivering goods to farms, markets, or other destinations. They may also pick up goods, equipment, or supplies from other locations, such as a feed mill or equipment dealer.
The driver must ensure that the goods are transported safely and securely, following all relevant laws and regulations. They may also need to interact with customers or other farmers, answering questions and providing advice or recommendations as needed.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, the driver may continue with the tasks from the morning or move on to new ones. They may be responsible for unloading the goods, equipment, or supplies at the destination, ensuring that they are delivered to the correct location and stored properly.
The driver may also be responsible for completing paperwork or other administrative tasks related to the delivery or pickup of goods. This may involve recording the weight, quantity, or other details of the goods, as well as maintaining records of the truck’s maintenance and operation.
Evening
As the day comes to a close, the farm truck driver may finish up any tasks that need to be completed, such as cleaning and maintaining the truck or reviewing delivery records. They may also use this time to plan for the next day’s work, ensuring that they have the necessary goods, equipment, or supplies and that the truck is ready for the next trip.
Being a farm truck driver requires a high level of attention to detail and technical expertise. It is an essential role in the agriculture industry, helping to ensure that farms have the resources they need to operate efficiently. By working closely with farmers, market managers, and other professionals, a farm truck driver can help to ensure the long-term success of the agriculture industry and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.